Sources: West Ham pull plug on signing marquee forward in surprise January U-turn
West Ham are set to put their hunt for a marquee new striker on hold until the summer window in an unexpected U-turn, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking to the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track Podcast, transfer correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that the Irons have found that their top targets are proving too expensive to land in January after making enquiries around Europe.
Fans have called for a new arrival in the mid-season window after Michail Antonio’s injury problems and Danny Ings’ lack of goals so far this term.
But David Moyes’ side are set to prioritise other areas of their squad in the remainder of the transfer window, which shuts on 1 February.
Kalvin Phillips is set to join from Man City on a loan-to-buy deal, while Football Insider revealed on Wednesday (24 January) that West Ham are in very advanced talks to sign 19-year-old FC Nordsjaelland forward Ibrahim Osman.
The Irons could yet move for another centre-back if Nayef Aguerd attracts late interest from the Saudi Pro League.
Said Benrahma may also be given the green light to depart if the deal to sign Osman progresses as expected.
One potential striker target was Chelsea star Armando Broja, but Football Insider revealed on 22 January that a deal for the Albania international has collapsed as West Ham couldn’t afford his £50million+ price tag.
Jarrod Bowen (14 goals) is the club’s top scorer so far in the 2023-24 campaign, with summer signing Mohammed Kudus close behind (10 goals).
The Irons, who will play Europa League knockout stage football from March, sit sixth in the Premier League after 21 games.
In other news, West Ham reject chance to sign Ligue 1 forward.
For more West Ham and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.